A Pathway to Purpose: Alejandra's Journey to Pediatric Nursing

Alejandra Jimenez always knew she wanted to become a nurse. Luckily, a chance conversation with her supervisor at a community service program connected her to an opportunity to achieve her dream: the Conway Nursing Pathway Program.

Today, Alejandra is a senior nursing student at Florida A&M University and a soon-to-be registered nurse at Children’s National. Her journey has been made possible, in large part, through the Conway Nursing Pathway Program, which helps the next generation of pediatric nurses through scholarships, paid clinical experience and mentorship.

"It felt like a blessing," Alejandra says. "What are the chances that there would be a program specifically for nursing students to work at a children's hospital?"

Bill Conway and his late wife Joanne Barkett Conway generously established the program in 2019. Since its creation, the Conway Nursing Pathway Program has supported over 80 aspiring nurses, connecting them with opportunities for mentorship, career development, clinical experience and scholarships to help avoid more than $2.4 million in student debt.

The program surrounded Alejandra with the resources and financial support she needed to succeed. She credits her mentors with helping her navigate nursing school and her career aspirations.

Over the past four summers, Alejandra has worked at Children's National through the program. She advanced from intern to nurse trainee and now works as a clinical care technician on the Heart and Kidney Unit. After excelling in each role, she received a job offer to join the Heart and Kidney Unit as a registered nurse after graduation.

"Four years ago, I never would have imagined I’d be working at a children's hospital, have my future career lined up, have my college paid for and be surrounded by mentors and supportive people who genuinely care about my success," Alejandra says.

On June 19, 2026, Alejandra joined Mr. Conway and fellow program participants at Children's National to celebrate their achievements and bright futures in pediatric nursing.

During this celebration, senior vice president and chief nursing officer, Cicely "CC" Brooks, DNP-ENL, MSN, RN, NEBC, FAB, spoke to the program participants and stressed the importance of this incredible program.

"Since stepping into this role, there are few things that excite me more than the work happening in our Conway Nursing Pathway Program," Dr. Brooks says. "Thanks to this program and the incredible investment of the Bedford Falls Foundation, you are all on your way to becoming nursing leaders."